Concord Reads is back and wants YOU to read Firoozeh Dumas's "Funny in Farsi" and "Laughing Without An Accent." An initiative of the Concord Public Library Foundation and the Concord Public Library, Concord Reads encourages the community to pick up the same book (or books) and to get reading. Special programming pertaining to Dumas's works will be happening around town to get people talking not only about the books but also about the broader theme of immigration. We spoke with Shawn LaFrance, head of the Concord Reads committee, about this year's selections. This year, the committee went with…

Concord resident Loretta Poulin spotted a butterfly this summer. Send your photos to news@theconcordinsider.com.

Presidential Oaks resident Florence Tolland and was honored last week at a party to celebrate her 106th birthday! Kids from the Presidential Oaks children center presented Florence with a large drawing of a birthday cake, each of the 106 candles finger-painted by the children. Florence has lived at the retirement home since 2002. She enjoys attending music programs, social events, and…

She was born Sarah Thompson and died Countess Sarah Rumford, an impressive title for a Concord girl! Thompson was the daughter of Benjamin Thompson, who fled to Europe in 1774 after he was suspected of sympathizing with the British. Benjamin Thompson lived an illustrious life, making scientific discoveries and socializing with the rich and famous. Among his most lasting inventions: an especially efficient fireplace.…

Once a month, young business folk get together to eat, drink and network thanks to the Concord Young Professionals Network. The next CYPN meeting will be held on Sept. 15 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Vintner's Cellar Custom Winery, 133 Loudon Road. Admissions if free, but you must register at concordypn.org. Or if you can't wait until Sept. 15 to mingle, CYPN is hosting a Lunch and Learn…

NASCAR, hockey and open-mic comedy. The common thread? Spectators at all three arrive with a little bloodlust. As much as crowds love good comedy, there's a giddy anticipation when an audience senses that a comic is on the verge of crashing and burning. It's a question I've been asked before: What is it like when the jokes don't work? When the laughter is definitely at you, not with you? What is it like to bomb? For…